Euro 2024: Top Teams to Watch and Potential Winners Explored

Get ready for a month of exciting matches featuring the world’s best footballers battling it out for continental glory. This article will explore the contenders, from favorites to underdogs that might cause a surprise.

Unveiling the Tournament’s History and Format

Before diving into the potential winners, let’s take a quick look back at the history of this prestigious tournament. Every four years, Europe holds its own version of the World Cup, known as the Euros, where the top national teams on the continent participate. Past winners include Italy, Germany, Spain, and Portugal.

The Euros format has also evolved significantly.  Previously featuring just four teams, today’s tournament is comprised of twenty-four teams. This expansion allows for more exciting competition and even some unexpected victories, like Greece in 2004 and Denmark in 1992.

Who Conquered Euro 2020?

Italy won by penalty shootout against England in last year’s edition delayed by pandemic.  Can they defend their title on German soil?

Euro 2024: Favorites to Watch

While Italy’s group is challenging, they remain a force to be reckoned with. However, other teams are generating serious title talk. Below are frontrunners:

• England: The 2021 finalists a talented young squad with talent like Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka, alongside established stars like Harry Kane. Their strong defense makes them a real threat.
• France: Led by the dynamic Kylian Mbappe and coached by the experienced Didier Deschamps, France is another powerhouse. They possess quality talent as well as winning history having reached World Cup final in 2022.
• Germany: The hosts can never be underestimated, despite a recent dip in form. They have a rich history in the Euros, having won the title three times. Julian Nagelsmann’s new team should not be ignored.
• Portugal: Portugal possesses a star-studded squad with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the charge. Supported by players like Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, they have the potential to reach the final stages under manager Roberto Martinez.

The Underdog Story: Can They Spring a Surprise?

The Euros expansion to 24 teams allows smaller nations to dream big. We’ve seen this before with Iceland’s unexpected victory over England in 2016 and North Macedonia’s remarkable performance in 2021. This year, Georgia (ranked 85th and making their Euros debut), Albania (66th and only in their second Euros), and Slovenia (65th with European experience) all have the potential to make a big impact.

Key Euro 2024 Dates to Remember

• Tournament Kick-off: Friday, June 14th, 2024 (Germany vs. Scotland)
• Final: Sunday, July 14th, 2024 (Olympiastadion, Berlin)

Where Will the Magic Unfold?

Ten German cities, from Dortmund’s iconic Westfalenstadion to Berlin’s historic Olympiastadion, will host Euro 2024 matches.

So who will win it all? Mark your calendars, grab your jersey, and get ready for an unforgettable summer of football!